By Ashley Reyes

 

Aspiring leaders in the automotive aftermarket industry who want to elevate their personal and professional development have limited time left to apply for the 2026 SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program (PDP). Applications will close next month, so act soon.
 

Taking place May 14-15 at the SEMA Garage facility in Detroit, this isn't your average corporate seminar. It is a high-impact, two-day intensive training tailored specifically for the challenges of the automotive industry.

 

"The Professional Development Program allowed me to self-assess my communication, leadership and presentation skills," said PDP participant Cameron Foremaster of QA1/Speedtech Performance. "It brought up areas that I thought I excelled at, but clearly needed more attention. This training benefits anyone looking to better their interpersonal relationships."

 

Why the 2026 FLN PDP Program Is Different

 

Unlike generic training, the SEMA FLN PDP utilizes the world-renowned Dale Carnegie curriculum--including principles from the "How to Win Friends and Influence People" novel--and applies them to real-world automotive scenarios.

 

What You'll Gain in Just 48 Hours With the 2026 FLN PDP:

• Active listening: Move beyond hearing to truly understanding your team.
• Public speaking: Gain the confidence to pitch ideas effectively to leadership.
• Conflict resolution: Learn actionable strategies to overcome communication hurdles across departments.
• Networking: Build lasting relationships with the next generation of industry icons.

 

"The Professional Development Program really helped me to understand that genuine conversations and reactions start with a good attitude and purpose from within," said PDP participant Aly Oakley of BrakeQuip. "Be a good listener, watch your tone of voice and be confident."

 

What Your Registration Covers  

 

New for 2026: The FLN Professional Development Program is available to all SEMA members. At $960 for FLN members and $1,060 for SEMA members, participants receive two full days of training, a certificate of completion, three nights' hotel accommodation (May 13–15), and food and beverage during the program. 

 

Don't Wait: Only 25 Seats Available for 2026 Event

 

To ensure an intimate, high-value learning environment, the cohort is strictly limited to 25 students. Apply by Monday, April 13, to secure your spot and bring greater value to your company. Register below or visit sema.org/fln-pdp

 

2025 SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program (PDP) graduating class.

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

As advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) technology becomes standard on nearly every new vehicle, the lack of clear calibration data is a direct threat to your ability to modify and customize your vehicles. Add your business to our official coalition letter (click HERE or the button below) to the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee to urge the swift passage of H.R. 6688.

 

The ADAS Functionality and Integrity Act (H.R. 6688) is SEMA's top legislative priority to ensure "safety" is never used as a pretext to lock out independent manufacturers and shops. H.R. 6688 was recently passed in subcommittee, but we need your support as it heads to a committee-wide vote.

The Problem: Engineering in a Vacuum

Currently, there are no federal standards for calibrating sensors, cameras or other ADAS features after a vehicle has been lifted, fitted with aftermarket bumpers, or even wrapped. Without H.R. 6688, our industry is forced to navigate an OEM-driven "guessing game" that doesn't account for real-world equipment.

Help Us Move This Bill Forward

H.R. 6688 has strong bipartisan support, but its progress depends on the members of House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing directly from the businesses impacted by these technical barriers. We need a unified front to show that consumer freedom and vehicle safety are not mutually exclusive.

 

Sign our coalition letter today (click HERE) to urge the Energy and Commerce Committee to pass the ADAS Functionality and Integrity Act.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | metamorworks
 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

As advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) technology becomes standard on nearly every new vehicle, the lack of clear calibration data is a direct threat to your ability to modify and customize your vehicles. Add your business to our official coalition letter (click HERE or the button below) to the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee to urge the swift passage of H.R. 6688.

 

The ADAS Functionality and Integrity Act (H.R. 6688) is SEMA's top legislative priority to ensure "safety" is never used as a pretext to lock out independent manufacturers and shops. H.R. 6688 was recently passed in subcommittee, but we need your support as it heads to a committee-wide vote.

The Problem: Engineering in a Vacuum

Currently, there are no federal standards for calibrating sensors, cameras or other ADAS features after a vehicle has been lifted, fitted with aftermarket bumpers, or even wrapped. Without H.R. 6688, our industry is forced to navigate an OEM-driven "guessing game" that doesn't account for real-world equipment.

Help Us Move This Bill Forward

H.R. 6688 has strong bipartisan support, but its progress depends on the members of House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing directly from the businesses impacted by these technical barriers. We need a unified front to show that consumer freedom and vehicle safety are not mutually exclusive.

 

Sign our coalition letter today (click HERE) to urge the Energy and Commerce Committee to pass the ADAS Functionality and Integrity Act.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | metamorworks
 

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Francisco Kellman, industrial designer at Oracle Lighting, as the network's newest spotlight member. 
 

Get to know Kellman in his interview with SEMA News below. 
 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Francisco Kellman: My eighth-grade English teacher told me to stop drawing cars and do some real work. That motivated me to make that work real.

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

FK: The opportunity to be creative and bring joy to people.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

FK: Canoeing in a swamp.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

FK: Give the presentation in my head and write down the words that sound good.

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

FK: Raymond Loewy. He embodies the streamline era and is an all-time great industrial designer who impacted what the future looked like.

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
 

 

SEMA is promoting Lauren Wilbor to political director, giving her day-to-day oversight of the organization's grassroots and grasstops efforts to support SEMA's advocacy and communications efforts in Washington, D.C., and throughout the country. She will continue to be based out of SEMA's Washington, D.C., office.
 

In her previous role as manager of digital communications and partnerships, Wilbor spearheaded SEMA's groundbreaking effort to deploy automotive content creators for advocacy. Her work has brought greater visibility to SEMA's award-winning campaign to preserve vehicle choice in the United States and has elevated an ongoing, state-based effort to protect and preserve the right to race nationwide. She will now be tasked with creating and implementing multi-pronged advocacy campaigns in support of federal, state and local legislative initiatives, while also advancing SEMA's political engagement programs, including the Driving Force Action SuperPAC, to ensure awareness among lawmakers, SEMA member businesses and other aligned stakeholder organizations. 
 

"When we brought Lauren in to oversee our digital advocacy and relationships with the content creator community, she provided immediate value through her ability to mobilize key voices in our nation's community of automotive enthusiasts. She is creative, organized, and has an ability to create personal connections within our community," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs. "We're thrilled to give her the reins to our advocacy campaigns as we continue our efforts to preserve and protect the automotive aftermarket and our nation's rich car culture."
 

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step into this role and continue advancing SEMA's advocacy efforts on behalf of the automotive aftermarket and performance racing industries," Wilbor said. "SEMA represents one of the most passionate communities in the country, and it's a privilege to help amplify the voices of our members, along with builders, racers and enthusiasts nationwide. I'm excited to build on the momentum of our advocacy campaigns and continue fighting for the enthusiasts and businesses that make this industry so special."
 

Wilbor, a native of San Diego, holds a degree in political science from the University of Colorado Boulder.
 

For more information, visit sema.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
 

 

SEMA is promoting Lauren Wilbor to political director, giving her day-to-day oversight of the organization's grassroots and grasstops efforts to support SEMA's advocacy and communications efforts in Washington, D.C., and throughout the country. She will continue to be based out of SEMA's Washington, D.C., office.
 

In her previous role as manager of digital communications and partnerships, Wilbor spearheaded SEMA's groundbreaking effort to deploy automotive content creators for advocacy. Her work has brought greater visibility to SEMA's award-winning campaign to preserve vehicle choice in the United States and has elevated an ongoing, state-based effort to protect and preserve the right to race nationwide. She will now be tasked with creating and implementing multi-pronged advocacy campaigns in support of federal, state and local legislative initiatives, while also advancing SEMA's political engagement programs, including the Driving Force Action SuperPAC, to ensure awareness among lawmakers, SEMA member businesses and other aligned stakeholder organizations. 
 

"When we brought Lauren in to oversee our digital advocacy and relationships with the content creator community, she provided immediate value through her ability to mobilize key voices in our nation's community of automotive enthusiasts. She is creative, organized, and has an ability to create personal connections within our community," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs. "We're thrilled to give her the reins to our advocacy campaigns as we continue our efforts to preserve and protect the automotive aftermarket and our nation's rich car culture."
 

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step into this role and continue advancing SEMA's advocacy efforts on behalf of the automotive aftermarket and performance racing industries," Wilbor said. "SEMA represents one of the most passionate communities in the country, and it's a privilege to help amplify the voices of our members, along with builders, racers and enthusiasts nationwide. I'm excited to build on the momentum of our advocacy campaigns and continue fighting for the enthusiasts and businesses that make this industry so special."
 

Wilbor, a native of San Diego, holds a degree in political science from the University of Colorado Boulder.
 

For more information, visit sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

 

As interest in overlanding grows among consumers, aftermarket manufacturers and retailers face new challenges and opportunities across product development, sales and installation.
 

To help members better understand what this growing segment means for their businesses, the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) will host an upcoming Coffee and Conversation on Thursday, April 2, at 9:00 a.m. PDT/12:00 p.m. EDT.
 

The discussion will explore key product considerations for overland builds, including how wheels and tires, suspension upgrades and braking components can support added load and off-road use. Additionally, Mike Hallmark, brand manager and director at Prototitan, will share best practices for selling, installing and supporting overlanding products, with insights into customer education, proper setup and common challenges faced by shops and manufacturers.
 

Unlike webinars that offer minimal time for interaction, WTSBC Coffee & Conversations are centered on open dialogue. Attendees will be able to network, share insights and learn from subject matter experts.
 

Be part of the conversation by registering for the event here.

By Ashley Reyes

 

Are you ready to apply your industry expertise toward shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket? If you have the vision to drive meaningful change in the industry beyond your daily responsibilities, SEMA invites you to take a seat at the table.
 

SEMA is seeking passionate volunteers to serve on its council and network select committees--a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on your market segment or professional community, strengthen leadership skills and build valuable industry connections.
 

"SEMA select committees provide the boots-on-the-ground intelligence and leadership necessary to protect and advance our nine distinct communities," said SEMA Senior Director of Member Engagement Marcy Yanus. "We aren't just looking for participants--we're looking for strategic thinkers who are ready to roll up their sleeves and build a more resilient industry for everyone."
 

Select committee volunteers are crucial to the success of many of SEMA's signature programs and resources that help member businesses stay competitive and industry professionals excel in their careers. With the guidance of SEMA staff, volunteers meet throughout the year to develop new initiatives, events and educational opportunities that address industry challenges and provide opportunities for growth.
 

Through this fun and rewarding experience, volunteers establish strong industry relationships, build skills to advance in current roles and learn from industry leaders with similar passions.   

 

At the SEMA Show and beyond, select committee volunteers help drive the aftermarket forward. Pictured are the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) select committees.

What It Takes to Serve and Why It Matters

There are nine councils and networks within SEMA. The biggest qualifications to serve on a select committee are current employment by a SEMA-member company and active membership of the council or network you're wishing to serve. Strategic planning skills, relevant aftermarket experience and genuine interest in supporting the growth of your segment are highly encouraged and should be explained in the application.  
 

Because SEMA aims to provide volunteers with adequate time and experience to make a real impact, volunteers are required to serve one two-year term and contribute approximately five to 10 hours per month. Participation includes monthly committee meetings and attendance at a yearly long-range planning meeting and council summit every other year.
 

Ready to step up, help your industry succeed and have fun in the process? Apply to join a Select Committee by Friday, April 17, at www.sema.org/volunteer.  
 

SEMA's nine councils and networks include:
 

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN) 
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) 
• Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) 
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) 
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) 
• Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) 
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) 

By SEMA News Editors

New this year, exhibitors must activate or create an account in our new customer relationship management (CRM) system before submitting their 2026 SEMA Show Exhibit Space Rental Application (ESRA).

 

SEMA has launched a new customer management system ahead of this year's SEMA Show, November 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas.
 

To improve how SEMA engages with exhibitors and serves the industry year-round, the association has migrated to a new customer management system powered by Salesforce.

What This Means for 2026 SEMA Show Exhibitors
 

New this year, exhibitors must activate or create an account in our new customer relationship management (CRM) system before submitting their 2026 SEMA Show Exhibit Space Rental Application (ESRA). Once an account is set up, industry members will be able to:
 

• Reserve exhibit space.
• Download invoices, complete online payments and access exhibitor resources.

How to Get Started

Getting set up in the new SEMA Show exhibitor platform is simple:
 

• Visit services.semashow.com.
• Returning exhibitors:
  • Enter the email you've used to purchase a SEMA Show booth before to receive a password reset link (click here).
• New exhibitors or returning exhibitors using a new email: 
  • Create a new account (click here)

Once logged in, exhibitors are ready to reserve an exhibit space.
 

Having Issues Reserving Your Exhibit Space? 

If you're not receiving a password reset email or can't set up a new account, it's possible your record has more than one email address on file. In that case, our team will need to assist you with setting up your account.

SEMA is providing hands-on support to ensure a smooth transition for every exhibitor. 

Call: 240-ASK-SEMA (240-275-7362)

Email: customercare@sema.org

SEMA's stellar customer care team will walk you through account setup, password resets or answer any question

Note: updating your account does not affect exhibitors' account history or SEMA Show seniority.

We're excited to share what we've been working on--and we look forward to helping you make the most of it.

---

In related news, SEMA has opened registration for the 2026 Exhibitor Summit, a must-attend and complimentary event for all exhibitors, including first-timers and long-timers. Learn more about that here.
 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens in Spring 2026; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | DC Studio

By SEMA News Editors

 

 

Acura to Kick Off Honda Heritage Parts Program in the U.S. with Reproduction Parts for First-Generation Acura NSX

 

 

Acura announced the launch of a new Honda Heritage Parts program in the United States, by offering reproduction parts for the first-generation Acura NSX exclusively through Acura dealerships nationwide beginning this summer.

 

"In this 40th anniversary year of the Acura brand, the launch of Honda Heritage Parts is especially meaningful, giving Acura enthusiasts the support they need to continue enjoying their first-generation Acura NSX," said Steven Bailey, vice president of Honda and Acura Parts Service and Technical Division. "At its core, the new Honda Heritage Parts program honors our shared passion for these iconic vehicles and helps ensure they can be enjoyed by future generations."

 

Honda Heritage Parts will include two categories: Genuine Honda Reproduction Parts and Honda Compatible Parts. This was made possible by the establishment of a new collaborative framework with parts suppliers, technological advancements, and the adoption of new materials and manufacturing methods.

 

• Genuine Honda Reproduction Parts will be reproduced using the same materials and production methods that were used for the original parts.
• Honda Compatible Parts are newly redeveloped and reproduced to replace original parts no longer available for sale by Honda.

 

Parts for other Acura and Honda performance models are being evaluated. Additional details, including pricing and parts availability, will be released closer to launch, said Honda.

 

Honda Heritage Works is a new global service business consisting of Honda Heritage Parts and Honda Restoration Service for customers who wish to preserve and continue driving classic Honda and Acura performance models. The service will reproduce discontinued genuine parts, including powertrain, interior, exterior, electrical and chassis parts. It will launch April 1, 2026, in Japan.

 

The Honda Restoration Service will be offered exclusively in Japan for Japan-market first-generation NSX models and will utilize Honda Heritage Parts to restore customer vehicles. Formerly known as the NSX Refresh Plan, the service has restarted in Japan under the Heritage Works initiative.

 

For more information, visit acuranews.com.

 

Shelby American Signs Strategic Agreement with Truck Company, Shelby Performance

 

 

Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International, has announced a new strategic agreement with truck company Shelby Performance of Bristol, Indiana.

 

Under the agreement, Shelby Performance will build and distribute a full line of Shelby trucks based on the Ford F-150 and F-250 pickups. Manufacturing is scheduled to begin in Q2 of 2026 at a new state-of-the-art facility dedicated to Shelby vehicles in Bristol. The new Shelby Performance agreement includes distribution of the trucks in an effort led by Brock Patterson, who earned the title of nation's top Shelby retail sales leader during the first decade of Shelby truck production.

 

Key highlights of the new truck line include:

• Enhanced King Shocks suspension systems delivering improved handling, durability and ride quality.
• Increased horsepower and performance tuning.
• Bold, unmistakable Shelby styling.
• Strictly limited production volumes to ensure exclusivity and long-term collector value.

 

"Demand for Shelby vehicles continues to grow globally, which is why we're expanding our production capabilities with strategic relationships worldwide," said Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American. “Through our own factory, as well as mod shops and manufacturing agreements, Shelby vehicles can now be built in Nevada, Michigan, Indiana, Canada, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and Australia. We only work with the best minds in automotive, which is why we aligned with the founders of Shelby Performance. Jeff Burttschell and Mike Graber, co-owners of Shelby Performance, are industry leaders who have demonstrated the ability to deliver world-class performance vehicles worthy of Carroll Shelby's name."

 

Shelby Performance operates from a production facility in Bristol, Indiana. The company currently employs a group of skilled assemblers and management professionals, many of whom bring years of experience. Shelby Performance has the capacity to build high-performance trucks, as well as cars and SUVs, when demand requires an uptick in production.

 

"When drivers see S H E L B Y boldly displayed across the grille, they recognize a symbol of authentic American performance heritage," said Burttschell. "Shelby is more than a brand. It's a lifelong passion. That passion drives every decision, every design detail and every vehicle that leaves the Bristol facility."

 

The new line of elite Shelby trucks based on the Ford F-150 and F-250 will roll out over the next 90 days, starting with the 2026 F-250 Super Baja launch next month.

 

Each vehicle from Shelby American is documented in the official Shelby Registry and includes membership in Team Shelby, the official club. To learn more about a Shelby vehicle, visit a local dealer or go to shelby.com.

 

GFS Chemicals Welcomes Erin Vyas and Matthew Fleshman as Product Managers

 

GFS Chemicals, a manufacturer of fine and specialty chemicals, has added two new product managers to its team: Erin Vyas and Matthew Fleshman.
 

Each will play a pivotal role in the company's ongoing growth and innovation, company representatives said. Responsibilities will include developing new products, analyzing market opportunities, determining pricing strategies and providing technical support and training for both customers and internal teams.
 

As a senior product manager, Vyas will work directly with turbidity and UV-Vis reference standards. Before joining GFS Chemicals, Vyas spent nearly a decade at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where she launched new products, developed top-rate technical content and training materials and supported the global commercialization of more than 250,000 laboratory products.
 

Fleshman, formerly a senior research scientist at Abbott Nutrition, joins GFS Chemicals with a focus on developing new custom products for the company's research and analytical chemicals division.
 

For more information, visit gfschemicals.com.

 

Meyer Distributing Announces New Partnership With MTN OPS

 

Meyer Distributing has entered into a new partnership with MTN OPS, an outdoor performance energy and nutrition brand designed for backcountry enthusiasts, hunters and tactical athletes to improve physical performance, strength and recovery.
 

MTN OPS provides supplements, apparel and gear designed for rigorous training and outdoor adventures, the company said, and offers a wide range of performance-enhancing powders and capsules, such as Ignite, an energy drink mix containing 200 mg of caffeine and nootropics for mental clarity, and Hydrate, which provides more than 1,000 mg of electrolytes to support cellular fluid balance during intense physical activity.
 

"Partnering with Meyer Distributing marks an important step for MTN OPS," said Daren Yates, vice president of sales for MTN OPS. "Their operational excellence and customer-focused approach align with our goals to expand service reliability and accelerate delivery to our clients. We look forward to a collaborative relationship that drives measurable value for our customers and partners."
 

"MTN OPS was a huge hit at our RV/Marine show," said Nick Gramelspacher, vice president of brand strategy for Meyer. "They offer a great POP display for your store to sit by your counter so you can enjoy those impulse sales. Plus, your employees will love the beef sticks, protein bars and energy packets."
 

For more information, visit meyerdistributing.com.